THACKERVILLE, Okla. – While fans anxiously awaited the arrival of the Backstreet Boys at an outdoor venue in Oklahoma, a severe storm struck the area leaving 14 people with injuries.
14 people suffered minor injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals after nearly 80 mph wind gusts knocked over concrete entrances trusses and tents.
According to the Associated Press, WinStar World Casino and Resort said in a statement posted to Twitter Saturday that evacuations began around 5 p.m. when lightning was reported within 4 miles of the venue.
Official statement about the process of choosing to postpone the Backstreet Boys concert: https://t.co/69HzqiKW0C
— WinStar World Casino and Resort (@WinStarWorld) August 19, 2018
The company said the decision was not easy to make as patrons traveled near and far for the show, but the safety of fans, artists, and event staff was the main priority.
Of the 14 people taken to the hospital, two have already been released.
Backstreet Boys member Kevin Richardson posted to Twitter saying Backstreet will be back!
Update… unfortunately, due to damage sustained in the storm earlier this evening, we are unable to perform the show tonight. Safety is always #1. Keep your tickets because, Backstreet WILL BE BACK! ✌🏻❤️
— Kevin Richardson (@kevinrichardson) August 19, 2018
The company has not said when the concert will be rescheduled.
(The Associated Press contributed to the writing of this story.)
